Natural Aphrodisiacs

Are you looking to boost your energy or increase your libido? While most of us are aware of foods such as oysters to get us in the mood, there are numerous other foods that you may not be aware of.

Talk of food being a natural aphrodisiac has been around since the dawn of time and Henry IV, was known for drinking a shot of cognac with egg yolk every morning to increase his “man powers”. Even the Aztecs referred to chocolate as “nourishment of the Gods”.

Here are my top choice aphrodisiacs. Enjoy!

Oysters

These mouthwatering mollusks are the classic aphrodisiac. And, there’s research to support it: raw oysters are very high in zinc, which raises sperm and testosterone production, thus increasing libido. Like some fish, oysters contain omega-3 fatty acids, considered to increase one’s overall well-being and even fight depression.

Asparagus

Did you know in 19th-century France bridegrooms were served three courses of the sexy spears at their prenuptial dinner? Apparently for good reason!! And according to herbalist Nicholas Culpepper, Asparagus “stirs up lust in man and woman”! All that aside, Asparagus is a great source of potassium, fibre, vitamin B1, B6, A and C, as well as folic acid. It also enhances the immunity and has cholesterol lowering effects. Asparagus contains appreciable amounts of prebiotics – a type of fibre that encourages the growth of the beneficial bacteria that are already in the digestive tract. As well as promoting a healthy digestive system, other potential benefits of prebiotics include improving the absorption of minerals such as calcium, enhancing immunity and cholesterol lowering effects.

Almonds

Although Almonds don’t look particularly sexy they have been regarded as fertility symbols throughout antiquity. The aroma of almonds supposedly arouses passion in females!

Almonds contain around 160 calories for 28g – 20-25 nuts. So although they are relatively high in calories, a study in the International Journal of Obesity found that regular almond-eaters lost more weight than those who weren’t. This underlines again that not all calories are the same, it depends on the food those calories are coming from and the subsequent action on your body.Click here for more of the benefits of almonds and tasty snack recipes to include them in your diet.

Bananas

This shapely and nutritious fruit is a complete meal, loaded with potassium, magnesium and B vitamins. It also contains chelating minerals and the Bromelain enzyme, said to enhance the male libido — maybe that’s why Central Americans drink the sap of the red banana as an aphrodisiac, while Hindus regard it as a symbol of fertility. A banana left on a doorstep indicates that a marriage is about to take place. Bananas made an early appearance in the Garden of Eden; according to Islamic myth, Adam and Eve covered themselves not with fig but banana leaves.

Include bananas in your diet with these easy recipes:

Basil

This fragrant member of the mint family has an alluring aroma; so alluring, in fact, it can cure headaches. All kinds of headaches! Basil has a warming effect on the body and promotes circulation. In some parts of Italy, basil is a love-token.

Chocolate

Pure, dark chocolate has a centuries old reputation as an aphrodisiac. It contains phenylethylamine (PEA), which stimulates your sex hormones. It also contains magnesium (great for relaxation) and cacao to boost the endorphin’s. This aphrodisiac has long been associated with fertility, seduction and love.

Eggs

The egg is one of the most ancient fertility symbols. Eggs are high in B6 and B5, which help you balance hormone levels and fight stress. Raw chicken eggs eaten before sex are considered to enhance one’s libido. But we’re talking eggs of all sorts, fish or fowl.

Click here for more health benefits of including eggs in your diet and 20 exciting ways to cook them!

Avocado

Whether you are looking to boost your energy or libido, look no further than deliciously creamy, cancer fighting avocados!

Often avoided due to their relatively high fat content, Avocados are one of the best foods you can eat! Most of the fat is monounsaturated fat, which is considered to be a “good fat” and reduces levels of bad cholesterol in your blood and lowers your risk of stroke and heart disease.

Click here for more health benefits of including avocados in your diet and tasty recipes to help